Working dogs are an important component of various aspects of society such as in keeping the security and safety of servicemen among others. To perform optimally in such roles, there are various factors that are put into play.
Selection of the correct breed and a suitable individual form such a breed is a vital initial step. Other vital components of the process are the training techniques, tools, environmental factors, and structuring of the process itself, among others. It is worth noting that various breeds require different approaches to accomplishing any given task. This illustrates why each breed from husbandry, healthcare, training to maintenance is different from the other. When handling each breed, knowledge of how to treat it is necessary to minimize conflict between the dog and handler and eventually to achieve the intended purpose.
The malinois breed for example is an energetic one, that is strongly driven by several drives such as prey and defense. As discussed in another post here, the Malinois is also a sensitive dog and highly focused on its handler to pick clues and follow directions. This is one sensitive breed that calls for an appropriate matching to the appropriate handler, from training to work.
Until around two decades ago, the Belgian Malinois was not among the popular working breeds for geographical reasons and its scarcity among other shepherds. Common breeds utilized before malinois came to the stage were Border collies, Springer Spaniels, Labrador, Retriever, Terriers, Rottweilers, German shepherds, hounds, and crossbreds, among others. The Belgian Malinois today is one of the most preferred utility dogs for its trainability, health, character, and intelligence.
Working breeds as mentioned above come with maintenance costs. Among the maintenance costs involves healthcare, diet, and training to keep their performance optimal. Diet do not vary vastly but canines are carnivores that also depend on other supplements to complete their nutritional requirements. Therefore it’s important to be conversant on what works for a certain breed.
While a malinois might not be the first choice for everyone, we have found this breed to be a performer and great companion when catered for correctly. A malinois remains one of the healthiest among shepherds and all breeds generally. Offspring from tested parents minimizes the risks of hereditary diseases such as hip and elbow dysplasia.
Pingback: Our Females | Strong working Bloodlines
Pingback: Jitta Kennels | Malinois Areas of Excellence